Adam Eaton stood by his locker Wednesday discussing specifics with pitching coach Bob Apodaca. Eaton returned to the big leagues to help cover the Rockies’ bullpen after both longmen Jhoulys Chacin and Josh Fogg worked multiple innings Tuesday.
Chacin was optioned to Triple-A Colorado Springs to make room for Eaton. There’s no guarantee that Chacin will return, though it seems likely he will in September when rosters expand if he improves his fastball command.
“His secondary pitches are electric and can get major league hitters out,” manager Jim Tracy said. “He understands the importance of establishing the fastball. This wasn’t about what he had or hadn’t done.”
This was Eaton’s scheduled day to start in Triple-A, so he’s prepared to carry a heavy load if Ubaldo Jimenez or Jason Marquis have an unexpected brief outing. Eaton will assume a long relief role for now.
“It’s good to be here,” Eaton said as he ran out for stretch.
The right-hander was released in spring training by the Phillies, picked up by the Orioles, then cut again. He pitched well in Triple-A for the Colorado Sky Sox, going 3-3 with a 2.67 ERA in 67 1/3 innings.
“I remember him as a guy with a fastball, curveball and changeup,” Tracy said. “We will see where it goes from here. I am not looking ahead three or four days. I am just looking at today.”
Reliever Alan Embree was transferred to the 60-day disabled list to create a 40-man spot for Eaton. Embree would still be eligible to return in mid-September. His doctor appointment today on his broken leg could determine if a comeback is even possible this season.
A look at the Rockies’ lineup tonight:
LF Seth Smith
CF Carlos Gonzalez
1B Todd Helton
SS Troy Tulowitzki
RF Brad Hawpe
3B Ian Stewart
2B Clint Barmes
C Chris Iannetta
RHP Ubaldo Jimenez
